Types of quilting can include an overall edge-to-edge pattern on the whole quilt, an edge-to-edgepattern in the center of the quilt plus a border pattern(s) in the border(s) or custom quilting wherepatterns are placed in specific blocks, borders, sashing, etc.

Edge-to-Edge patterns are frequently used when:

-The quilt will be used heavily or washed frequently.

-Fabrics are so busy or so interesting that they are the main feature and it would be hard tosee the quilting no matter what pattern and thread is used.

-A special theme that may or may not be in the fabrics is desired.

-The quilter wants to draw less attention to the piecing.

Custom quilting:

-Allows for a different type of creativity (patterns can be matched to blocks or other specificshapes / places, names, sayings or other text can be part of the quilting, different threadcolors can be used in specific places, etc.)

-Can highlight the piecing of the quilt (but can also draw more attention to less accuratepiecing)

-Can use coordinating patterns in borders, blocks, etc.

-Is often (but not always) more densely quilted 

-Usually gives more of the “heirloom” look